Canon XL-H1s 3-CCD High Definition Camcorder

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Remember the Essentials

Video Cassettes are not included, and the standard battery included with your camcorder tends to provide less than an hour of recording time. In order to start shooting right away - and with longer shooting times - you will need to purchase video cassettes, and a longer-lasting battery. In order to protect your camera's lens, you will need a UV filter.

The Canon XL-H1s is an HDV camera that features interchangeable lenses. Using an improved 20x HD video zoom with superior optics further ensures a professional level of recording which is ideal for ENG, documentary and reality TV production. Filmmakers will appreciate the extensive cine' controls and 24 frame option.

The camera offers uncompressed HD-SDI and SD-SDI output for seamless integration into broadcast studios or high quality image transfer to non-linear editing systems. The Genlock feature allows studios to easily synchronize camera settings across multiple camcorders. Real SMPTE time code input and output allow for streamlined tape and edit management. This camera is fully capable of recording in standard definition DV format as well.

HDTV Resolution
The XL-H1s camcorder has three 1/3 inch 16:9 interlaced CCDs that capture images at 1080i resolution. The camcorder features selectable frame rates of 60i, 30 Frame and 24 Frame to allow the user to adjust to the assignment at hand and can switch back to SD resolution if needed. At the 30 Frame rate, broadcasters can capture fast motion like sports with confidence that each frame is captured individually and completely.

Filmmakers can utilize the 24 Frame rate when creating the look and feel of movie film. The 60i frame rate, meanwhile, delivers exceptional resolution for shooting environments like ENG or Reality TV. The XL-H1s HD camcorder is the first model to include Canon's proprietary DIGIC DV II image processor. DIGIC DV II is an image processor that can process both HD and SD video signals as well as still photos, while maintaining the correct color space for each mode.
Canon 20x HD Video Lens
The Canon XL-H1s features Canon's XL-interchangeable lens mount. For the XL-H1s camcorder Canon made a 20x high definition video zoom lens. It incorporates multiple Fluorite glass elements for superior color, contrast, resolution and reduction of chromatic aberrations. It is a fast lens with maximum aperture f/1.6 to f/3.5 depending on focal length. At its widest angle the lens is capable of close focusing down to 20mm or about 0.8".
Viewfinder and LCD Monitor
The XL-H1s comes with a multi-functional color viewfinder and a 2.4" diagonal LCD monitor with safe-zone frame-lines built in. There is a black and white mode, selectable zebra exposure mode, horizontal and vertical flip feature and a distance readout (with the 20x HD lens). As menu options the user can select safe-zone frame-lines for the following aspect ratios: 4:3, 13:9, 14:9, 1.66:1, 1.75:1, 1.85:1 and 2.35:1
Focus Assist Help Feature
The camcorder has a feature called Focus Help that uses prompts in the viewfinder to aid fast focusing. The PEAKING setting puts an exaggerated line on the viewfinder image that disappears when focus is achieved. The "Magnifying" setting enlarges the viewfinder image which should help the operator to better judge fine focusing.
Optical Stabilization Feature
Canon calls its image stabilizer Super-Range Optical Image Stabilization and it helps defeat camera shake from hand-held shooting and even shake produced from a moving vehicle. Because it is an optical function, it can compensate for a greater degree of camera shake and avoids any loss in image quality, unlike electronic or digital stabilizing methods.
Uncompressed HD-SDI and SD-SDI
The XL-H1s camcorder has all the connectors that professionals have been missing in other low-cost HDTV camcorders. For the ultimate in video transfers this camera has uncompressed HD-SDI and SD-SDI connectors. The serial digital BNC connectors can transfer both HD and standard definition signals.
Time Code
The XL-H1s camera is equipped with true SMPTE time code input and output. Time code from the camcorder can be sent to other recording devices (cameras, VTRs) so that they are all recording with the same clock.
Genlock Synchronization
Multi-camera shoots with the XL-H1s is no problem since the camcorder has Genlock sync. This feature allows many devices including cameras, VTRs and switchers to synchronize.

Go To

Signal System NTSC and HDV
Image Device 1/3" 3-CCD
16:9 and 4:3 Switchable
Lens 20x Video Zoom; 5.4-108mm
Signal-to-Noise Ratio Not Specified By Manufacturer
Horizontal Resolution 1080 Lines
Sensitivity Not Specified By Manufacturer
Minimum Illumination 60i: 7 lux, (1/60 shutter)
30F: 4 lux, (1/30 shutter)
24F: 3 lux, (1/24 shutter)
Vertical Smear Not Specified By Manufacturer
Built-in ND Filter 1/6 = 2 Stops
1/32 = 5 Stops
LCD Monitor 2.4" LCD with VF Magnifier Removed
Viewfinder Color LCD with Magnifier and Adjustable Ocular
Scan Matching Yes
Memory Card Slot Yes
Shutter Speed Range Not Specified By Manufacturer
Gain Selection -3, A, 0, 3, 6, 12, 18
VTR
Tape Format Mini DV
Tape Speed SP Speed = 18.81mm/s
LP Speed = 12.56mm/s
Signal-to-Noise Ratio Not Specified By Manufacturer
Maximum Recording Time 60 min
Audio
Audio Dynamic Range Not Specified By Manufacturer
Audio Signal Format 16-bit/48kHz (2 & 4 channel mode)
Audio Frequency Response 20Hz to 20kHz
Signal to Noise Ratio Not Specified By Manufacturer
General
Input and Output Connectors Firewire: 6-Pin (x1 Input, x1 Output)
Component Video: 3-RCA (x1 Input, x1 Output)
S-Video: 4-Pin (x1 Input, x1 Output)
Composite Video: BNC (x1 Input, x1 Output)
Mic Audio: XLR (x2 Input)
Mic Audio: Mini Stereo (x1 Input)
Line Audio: RCA (x2 Input, x2 Output)
Headphone: Mini Stereo (x1)
LANC Control: Mini Stereo (x1)
HD-SDI/SD-SDI: BNC (x1 Output)
Timecode: BNC (x1 Output)
Genlock: BNC (x1 Output)
Power Requirements 7.4VDC
Power Consumption Not Specified By Manufacturer
Operating Temperature 32-104°F (0-40°C)
Dimensions (WxHxD) 8.9 x 8.7 x 19.5" (22.6 x 22 x 49.6cm)
Weight Body Only
5.4 lb (2.4kg)

With Lens and Battery
8.8 lb (4kg)

REVIEW SNAPSHOT®

by PowerReviews
Canon XL-H1s 3-CCD High Definition Camcorder
 
5.0

(based on 2 reviews)

Ratings Distribution

  • 5 Stars

     

    (2)

  • 4 Stars

     

    (0)

  • 3 Stars

     

    (0)

  • 2 Stars

     

    (0)

  • 1 Stars

     

    (0)

REVIEWS

Reviewed by 2 customers

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5.0

I DONT LIVE WITHOUT CANON XL SERIES!

By RomeuSk8Lins

from Rio de Janeiro - Brasil

About Me Pro Videographer

Pros

  • Easy to Use
  • Good Image Stabilization
  • Good in Low Light
  • Great Picture Quality
  • Great Sound
  • Great Zoom
  • Large Clear LCD
  • Zoom range/performance

Cons

    Best Uses

    • Documentaries
    • HD Shooting
    • Home Movies
    • Indoors/Low Light
    • Movies/Short Films
    • Travel
    • Weddings/Events

    Comments about Canon XL-H1s 3-CCD High Definition Camcorder:

    I use 4 XL2 and 2 XL H1a for independent video production.
    The shoulders mount,the lens image and estabilization and the visual.
    I dont have nothing about CONS.

    • Was this a gift?:
    • Yes

    Comment on this review

    (24 of 28 customers found this review helpful)

     
    5.0

    A truly superb camera!

    By Galvatron

    from New York, NY

    About Me Professional

    Verified Reviewer

    Pros

    • Comfortable to Operate
    • Durable
    • Great Features
    • Great Picture Quality
    • Great Sound
    • Simple Controls
    • Versatile

    Cons

      Best Uses

      • Movies/Short Films

      Comments about Canon XL-H1s 3-CCD High Definition Camcorder:

      Got this camera and used it already for some uncompressed recording from the HD-SDI ... the image is gorgeous. Combined with a 35mm adapter, the footage is so film-like. Will be using this camera on a feature soon, and am confident it'll more than succeed for the job!

      The new lens feels quite a but better too compared to the original XL-H1.

      Comment on this review

      Displaying reviews 1-2

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      Media

      Recording media is not included. Be prepared-always carry extra media.

      Sony -  HDM63VG VG HDV Cassette (Videographer Grade )
      • Price: $6.00
       

      Batteries & Power Adapters

      Always keep a spare battery handy so you won't get caught without power.

      Canon -  BP-975 Intelligent Lithium-Ion Battery Pack (7800mAh)
      • Price: $239.00
       
      Pearstone -  BP-970 Lithium-Ion Battery Pack (7.2V, 7200mAh)
        • Original: $99.95
        • Save: $9.99
      • Price: $89.96
       

      Lenses & Lens Adapters

      Capture your desired angle of view with a quality conversion lens.

      Canon -  3.4-20mm 6x XL Wide Angle Zoom HD Lens for the Canon XL H1
      • Price: $2,479.95
       

      This is a special order item. Est. arrival at B&H is 2-4 weeks (subject to availability). Your order will be charged at the time of shipment.

      External Microphones

      Focus your sound with a high-quality microphone. Audio quality can make or break your video.

      Azden -  SGM-PDII On-Camera Short Shotgun Microphone
      • Price: $199.00
      • Click to see current price
       

      Bags & Cases

      Carry, organize and protect your investment with quick access to your gear.

      Kata -  CC-195 GDC HDV Case
      • Price: $ 160.00 Add to cart for lower price
       

      Tripod & Stationary Supports

      Stabilize the your footage and eliminate handheld fatigue with the support you need.

      Manfrotto -  504HD Head w/546B 2-Stage Aluminum Tripod System
        • Original: $718.00
        • Save: $113.05
      • Price: $604.95
       
      Canon -  TA100 Tripod Adapter
      • Price: $149.95
       

      Allows for quick tripod mounting and unmounting.

      View all Accessories

      What's in the Box

      Canon XL-H1s 3-CCD High Definition Camcorder
      • XL-Mount 20x HD Zoom Lens
      • CA-920 Charger/Power Adapter
      • AC Cable
      • BP-950G Battery Pack
      • Color LCD Viewfinder
      • DC-920 DC Coupler
      • WL-D5000 Remote Control
      • D Terminal Component Cable (DTC-1000)
      • SD Memory Card (SD-16M)
      • Skirt Adapter (PC-A10)
      • SS-1000 Shoulder Strap
      • Stereo Microphone
      • SP-100 Shoulder Pad
      • 1-Year Parts and Labor Warranty
       
       
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